What causes itchy skin during winter?

Sep 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Itchy skin during winter may be caused by dry skin, temperature changes, allergic reactions, kidney disease, diabetes, and other factors. Inflammatory responses triggered by allergic reactions can also stimulate nerve endings, making them more sensitive and thereby exacerbating the sensation of itchiness. Dry skin increases the sensitivity of nerve endings, causing even mild stimuli to provoke intense itching.

In general, body itching during winter may be caused by dry skin, temperature changes, allergic reactions, kidney disease, diabetes, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Dry Skin

During winter, low air humidity can cause the skin to lose moisture easily, leading to dryness, flaking, and itching. Maintain appropriate indoor humidity and use a humidifier.

2. Temperature Changes

Large temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments in winter, along with frequent transitions between cold and warm settings, may cause expansion and contraction of skin capillaries, triggering itching. Try to minimize indoor-outdoor temperature variations, avoid frequent transitions, and wear layered clothing to adapt to different temperature environments.

3. Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are inflammatory responses triggered when the skin comes into contact with allergens. Some individuals may have allergic reactions to cold air or certain substances, resulting in the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, which increases skin permeability and causes itching. Symptoms may also include swelling and blood vessel dilation. Follow medical advice to treat with medications such as chlorphenamine-tramadol tablets, ephedrine-diphenhydramine tablets, loratadine tablets, etc.

4. Kidney Disease

Kidney disease has various causes, including immune abnormalities, medication effects, and genetic factors. Kidney dysfunction leads to accumulation of metabolic waste products such as urea and creatinine in the body. These substances can directly stimulate skin receptors, causing itching, possibly accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, and other symptoms. It is recommended to follow medical guidance for treatment with medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, vitamin AD soft capsules, etc.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes can result from factors such as obesity and improper diet. A high blood glucose environment damages the nervous system, particularly peripheral nerves, leading to sensory abnormalities including itching. Symptoms may also include frequent urination and weight loss. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, treatments may include ketoconazole cream, mupirocin ointment, metformin hydrochloride tablets, etc.

Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in moderate exercise can help strengthen immunity and reduce the occurrence of allergic reactions.

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